Jordan Smith, managing director of Ay’up Duck, said: “We have a strong chance to win because I believe we have a unique selling point that has been successful throughout the year, with potential for expansion after the competition.

“The whole team has also worked really hard throughout the year to achieve our common goal and we are really glad we took part in the programme it has allowed us to work in a real life business environment which will help in the near future.

“This is particularly apparent will soon be applying for University and potential future careers.”

Scott Faulkner, link teacher at Academy at Ridgewood, said: “The company programme has enabled my students to experience the workings of a real life business throughout the academic year.

“It has equipped them with a better understanding of the skills required to work in business and has helped them develop into more mature young people. Their ability to work independently has increased greatly and they have developed vital team work skills throughout the process.

“I recommend the Young Enterprise programme to anyone that wants to take the theory out of the classroom and allow their pupils to experience the world of business first hand.”